Reflection

Reflection, abrupt change in the direction of propagation of a wave that strikes the boundary between different mediums. At least part of the oncoming wave disturbance remains in the same medium. Regular reflection, which follows a simple law, occurs at plane boundaries. The angle between the direction of motion of the oncoming wave and a perpendicular to the reflecting surface (angle of incidence) is equal to the angle between the direction of motion of the reflected wave and a perpendicular (angle of reflection). Reflection at rough, or irregular, boundaries is diffuse. The reflectivity of a surface material is the fraction of energy of the oncoming wave that is reflected by it. See alsototal internal reflection.

reflection of lightIn the reflection of light, the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection, measured from the normal (the line perpendicular to the point of impact).Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.